Retaining a distinct Italian culture, Corsica is a dollish island in France. Towering mountains, curving coastlines and flourishing forests are a part of the dramatic topography of Corsica. The weather and light here change rapidly throughout the day, it can be sunny one moment and rain another. This French territory is also known for its stiff and scenic hiking trails. Resolute backpackers can be spotted yomping over the challenging terrain. Manoeuvring through the plentiful peaks of the isolated beauty of Corsica can be a life-altering experience. As mentioned in the asterisk comic and The Godfather, this land will quench your thirst for the quest.
Here are some trails you should be rerouting towards when you’re up for some incredible hiking experience in Corsica to get a booster dose of adrenaline:
GR20
Presenting a fortnight of haven for hikers, the Gr20 trail runs 180 km long and passes Corsica and slices France from the north to the south. The hike is a test of your physical and mental fitness and one will encounter significant obstacles that will be nothing short of a challenging experience on account of the steep ascents and plunging descents. The Northern route starts from Calenzana and ends at Vizzavona while the southern course starts from the latter and ends at Conca. The view from both paths showcases the pristine natural beauty of the rugged landscape. Encounter Lac de Nino, a beautiful glacial lake in the midst of a grassy meadow, Monta Incudine, which is the highest mountain of Southern Corsica, Monte d’Oro, the 12th highest summit and Aiguilles de Bavella, or the spectacular cliffs. The prime time to go on the Gr20 expedition is from the months of June to September to escape natural climatic conditions of rain and snow.
GR34
One of the best hikes in Corsica, also known as the Sentier Des Douanier, the difficulty level of this 19 km hike is comparatively lesser than the Gr20. The trek starts with an adventure from Macinaggio and ends at a point called Port de Centuri. Enjoy a refreshing swim and breathe the fresh air. The eight to nine hours spent accomplishing the Gr34 will be filled with spellbinding views that have the capacity to delight one’s soul making it the most recommended trail to tread along.
MARE A MARE SUD
A top-notch Corsican hike resting in the Southern part of Corsica, the trail is a fairly easy five-day affair running from the east to the west. Mare a Mare Sud—meaning ‘from sea to sea’—will take you from one end to another. The rich topography will let you confront dramatic sandy beaches, high-altitude farmland, jagged mountains, lush Mediterranean vegetation, mediaeval harbour towns and intriguingly layered visuals. Once in the heart of the pine and oak forests, fall in love with the wild flora and fauna that this year- long trail makes accessible.
THE CASCADES DES ANGLAIS
The touristic trail of Cascades des Anglais takes about an hour and 30 minutes. This must-visit hike has a 200m difference in altitude and is serenaded by beautiful waterfalls, ruined castles and stunning mountains. Being a busy passage, it is recommended to reach here early in order to avoid the crowd and secure a spot to soak your feet in the quiet waters. It is also viable for families and kids above the age of 10 years to undertake this journey.
BONIFACIO COASTAL HIKE TO THE LIGHTHOUSE
An effortless and serene 9.8 km, the Bonifacio Coastal hike is suitable for everyone as it is on the flatter side. It starts from the harbour of Bonifacio and ends all the way up to the lighthouse. The old broad streets, city walls and ruins are a feast to the eyes. The spot is ideal for a picnic and suitable for pets. The entire trail might take up to three hours and 30 minutes but it is not necessary to cover the complete distance.
CAPO ROSSO
Capo Rosso in the Calanques de Piana region is a real knockout. Starting close to Piana, a small town, it is counted amongst the most beautiful places to be visited. The trail is exposed wide into the open and is well-marked. It flows across Genoese of Turghiu, which is one of the tallest towers on the Corsican coast. The summit of this tower offers a view of the Gulf of Porto, Sagone and Sacndola reserve. The hike can get a bit steep and it would be recommended to take certain precautions.
THE CORTE
An amalgamation of a hike and a cultural stroll, the Corte allows for a full discovery of the historic aspect of the city like the citadel and belvedere. The 2-km patch is alongside the Tavignanu river on whose banks the city is built. The altitude of the trail is less than 70 m. One can continue with the flexible trails revolving around the famous Lakes Melo and Capitello that have an aerial and rocky view.
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